Events in April 2023
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FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer (in-person)
FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer (in-person)
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Apr 1TheatreWorks Silicon Valley presents FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer.
Summary: “To hope is to vote!” Famed activist and civil rights hero Fannie Lou Hamer makes this impassioned rally cry, reminding us that change begins with just one voice. Tracing her steps from sharecropper to activist to political candidate, Fannie takes audiences on a gospel-filled journey of justice and self-determination, inspiring every American to rise up and fight for the vital issues of our time.
There will be three audio-described performances, courtesy of Gravity Access Services. Those performances are:
March 31 at 8:00 pm (pre-show talk at 7:30 pm)
April 1 at 8:00 pm (pre-show talk at 7:30 pm)
April 2 at 2:00 pm (pre-show talk at 1:30 pm)(Additionally, there is an ASL performance and three performances with copen captioning.)
Performances take place at the Lucie Stern Theatre at 1305 Middlefield Rd. Palo Alto, 94301.
Purchase tickets online for FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer.
After you purchase your ticket, you will also need to contact the box office to let them know you would like a headset for the audio-described performance at 650-463-1960 or boxoffice@theatreworks.org. There will be a talk You can also purchase your tickets this way. Pre-show talks are held 30 minutes before each performance.
Safety info: Masks are required for all attendees.
Visit the FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer TheatreWorks webpage.
View Trailer for FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer.
Meet FANNIE star Greta Oglesby. -
FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer (in-person)
FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer (in-person)
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Apr 2TheatreWorks Silicon Valley presents FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer.
Summary: “To hope is to vote!” Famed activist and civil rights hero Fannie Lou Hamer makes this impassioned rally cry, reminding us that change begins with just one voice. Tracing her steps from sharecropper to activist to political candidate, Fannie takes audiences on a gospel-filled journey of justice and self-determination, inspiring every American to rise up and fight for the vital issues of our time.
There will be three audio-described performances, courtesy of Gravity Access Services. Those performances are:
March 31 at 8:00 pm (pre-show talk at 7:30 pm)
April 1 at 8:00 pm (pre-show talk at 7:30 pm)
April 2 at 2:00 pm (pre-show talk at 1:30 pm)(Additionally, there is an ASL performance and three performances with copen captioning.)
Performances take place at the Lucie Stern Theatre at 1305 Middlefield Rd. Palo Alto, 94301.
Purchase tickets online for FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer.
After you purchase your ticket, you will also need to contact the box office to let them know you would like a headset for the audio-described performance at 650-463-1960 or boxoffice@theatreworks.org. There will be a talk You can also purchase your tickets this way. Pre-show talks are held 30 minutes before each performance.
Safety info: Masks are required for all attendees.
Visit the FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer TheatreWorks webpage.
View Trailer for FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer.
Meet FANNIE star Greta Oglesby.Queering Dance Festival Frolic (in-person)Queering Dance Festival Frolic (in-person)
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Apr 2Gravity Access Services, who provide accessibility for live performances in the Bay Area, are offering free tickets for blind/low-vision audience members and their companions to the Queering Dance Festival’s FROLIC on April 2.
The Queering Dance Festival (QDF) presents FROLIC, a live dance performance featuring new works by five commissioned LGBTQ+ dance artists. QDF highlights the artistic work and issues on the minds of the Queer, East Bay dance community through events that are opportunities to make cute connections and enjoy meaningful art!
Live audio description will be offered on Sunday, April 2 at both the 5:30pm and 7:30pm shows. A haptic tour will happen 45 minutes prior to both shows at 4:45 pm and 6:45 pm, respectively.
For those interested in performances with ASL interpretation, those shows are on April 1. RSVP information is below.
Show descriptions for audio-described shows:
5:30 pm - Program B: Clarissa Dyas | Xochipilli Dance Company (Héctor Jaime & Carmina Márquez)
Haptic tour starts at 4:45 pm
Héctor Jaime presents Insecta with collaborator Carmina Márquez: a moment of transcendental movement of embodying both characteristics of the masculine and feminine simultaneously; and Codornices en pétalos de rosa, an exploration of love.
Clarissa Dyas presents a new duet with collaborator Gabriele Christian.
7:30 pm Program A: Alyah Baker | Scott Duane | Emma Tome
Haptic tour starts at 6:45 pmAlyah Baker presents Quare Dance, which deconstructs and reimagines ballet through the lens of Black Queer subjectivity, offering a fresh perspective on what ballet is and can be. Based on a research project and installation of the same name, Quare Dance combines movement, text, and adornment to explore the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality.
and this is the sound of my voice, is a solo sound and dance work by emma tome, moving through the terror and relief of recognition. A stumble between dysphoria and euphoria, the dance happens inside a live vocal echo chamber, and reflects the sometimes lonely, aching process of change, transition, and self-knowing.
Scott Duane and collaborators present Join Me on the Hunt, a trio that explores what it means to share their most precious and hard-earned discoveries with one anot
Performances take place at the Live Oak Theater at 1301 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley.
COVID-19 Policy: Masks are required for all audience members inside the lobby and theater. Performers will be performing unmasked and will be testing throughout the performance week.
Please email jessi@shawl-anderson.org to reserve tickets for the audio-description or ASL performances.
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LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)
LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)
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Apr 3Appointments for the 2023 Tax Season are full.
If you do not currently have an appointment and wish to be placed on the waiting list, you may call and leave your full name and phone number at 415 – 694 – 7648. There is no guarantee that we will be able to schedule you.
If you would like to find other free tax filing services, we recommend looking at:
- SF Human Services Agency Page, Filing Your Taxes for Free: https://www.sfhsa.org/services/financial-assistance/free-tax-help/file-your-taxes-free
- Calling 211 if in San Francisco
- Calling 311 for the greater Bay Area
While AARP’s Tax Season will close on April 13, the deadline to file both federal and state taxes has been extended to October 15, 2023.
If You have an appointment
If you have questions, please call 415 – 694 - 7648
Please bring with you:
- Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
- A copy of your social security card
- A copy of your photo ID
- If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you
COVID-19 Requirements:
Masks must be worn at all times.
Out of Scope:
If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.
- If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
- If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
- If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
- If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return. You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
- If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.
There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers, these will be addressed when the appointments are made.
If you have any questions, please call 415 -694 -7648. Thank you.
The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike Cole (online)The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike Cole (online)
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Apr 3What does it mean to be blind or low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, leads this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness—from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies.
RSVP for The Business of Blindness online or contact Andrew Martinez at AMartinez@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7642.
From The Top: Disabled Musicians Pnael Discussion (online)From The Top: Disabled Musicians Pnael Discussion (online)
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Apr 3Virtual Panel Discussion facilitated by From The Top alum Julia LaGrand (Open to the public)
From the Top’s Learning and Media Lab teams up with the Kennedy Center’s Office of Accessibility & VSA for a virtual panel discussion. The panel will comprise of four musicians with disabilities (Adrian Anantawan, Ophira Calof, Lloyd Coleman, Cristina Jones) and will be facilitated by 18-year-old violinist Julia LaGrand. They will discuss how they have navigated their own careers, how musicians with disabilities can take the lead in crafting their own narratives, how to make disability disclosures and share access needs, and field audience questions.
Closed captioning and ASL interpretation are both available for all webinars. For the most accessible viewing experience, we recommend watching the webinar on a desktop computer or laptop screen. For more information or to request other access services, please contact the Office of Accessibility and VisionServe Alliance (VSA) at 202-416-8898 (voice) or vsainfo@kennedy-center.org.
Vision: Peer-Led Support Group (online)Vision: Peer-Led Support Group (online)
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Apr 3Vision is a peer-led drop-in support group that runs on a 12-week cycle of topics based on Hannah Fairbairn’s 2019 book, “When You Can't Believe Your Eyes: Vision Loss and Personal Recovery”. Every first and third Monday of the month, we meet to discuss different topics and share our experiences, thoughts, and knowledge. We are people with similar experiences who genuinely want to support one another in all aspects of living independently with our changing vision. Reading is not required. However, if you would like topic details beyond our discussions, please refer to the book available on BARD (DBC11619).
April 3: The Shock and the Doc
April 17: Back at HomeRSVP online for Vision or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.
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Tech Together: April 2023 (online)
Tech Together: April 2023 (online)
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Apr 4Join the Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.
April 4: Let's Talk Low-tech
Using access technology involves working with computers, smartphones, and applications with lots of buttons, bells, and whistles... But does it always have to? Join the Access Technology team for an informal discussion about low-tech life hacks for getting things done.
RSVP online for Let's Talk Low-tech or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 11: Make the Most of Screen Reader Solutions
Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss the myriad options for making your devices talk. Whether you are a new user or a seasoned screen reading veteran, you won't want to miss this helpful overview.
RSVP online for Make the Most of Screen Reader Solutions or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 18: Get Set Up with Settings
Whether you are configuring a new device or troubleshooting a troublesome app, your settings can help you set things up or set things right. Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss how to confidently explore settings in any situation without disorientation.
RSVP online for Get Set Up with Settings or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 25: HumanWare Highlights
Join us as we discuss low vision and blindness products from long-established access technology manufacturers. This discussion will highlight offerings from HumanWare.
RSVP online for HumanWare Highlights or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
From The Top: Networking Event (online)From The Top: Networking Event (online)
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Apr 4From The Top: Networking Event (Disability-Only Space)
Young musicians who identify as disabled and/or neurodivergent are invited to gather for a networking event to build community and further explore the themes of the previous night’s conversation. Organizers hope that attendees will experience an affirming sense of community and benefit from open dialogue around personal experiences.
Please Note: This event is only open to those who self-identify as disabled and/or neurodivergent. Register for the From the Top networking event.
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Stress Reduction & Meditation (online)
Stress Reduction & Meditation (online)
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Apr 5We offer a series of short, meditation-based practices for relaxation and stress reduction. The group is appropriate for beginners and advanced practitioners and provides instruction in all aspects of the practice. Instructor Jeffrey Schneider has more than 40 years of meditation and teaching experience.RSVP for Stress Reduction & Meditation online, or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.Gratitude VIBES: April 2023 (online)Gratitude VIBES: April 2023 (online)
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Apr 5Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Each week a student presents something that invigorates them. Previous presentations included poetry, singing, drumming, visualization, calligraphy, self-care, gardening, and employment journeys. Gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help you feel more positive emotions, recognize and relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Individual shares and a gratitude exercise follow presentations.
April’s theme: Advocacy
April 5: Paratransit
April 12: Home Life/Neighborhood
April 19: Through Fundraising
April 26: Ride Share TaxisRSVP to Gratitude-VIBES online or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.
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LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)
LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)
–
Apr 6Appointments for the 2023 Tax Season are full.
If you do not currently have an appointment and wish to be placed on the waiting list, you may call and leave your full name and phone number at 415 – 694 – 7648. There is no guarantee that we will be able to schedule you.
If you would like to find other free tax filing services, we recommend looking at:
- SF Human Services Agency Page, Filing Your Taxes for Free: https://www.sfhsa.org/services/financial-assistance/free-tax-help/file-your-taxes-free
- Calling 211 if in San Francisco
- Calling 311 for the greater Bay Area
While AARP’s Tax Season will close on April 13, the deadline to file both federal and state taxes has been extended to October 15, 2023.
If You have an appointment
If you have questions, please call 415 – 694 - 7648
Please bring with you:
- Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
- A copy of your social security card
- A copy of your photo ID
- If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you
COVID-19 Requirements:
Masks must be worn at all times.
Out of Scope:
If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.
- If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
- If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
- If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
- If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return. You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
- If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.
There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers, these will be addressed when the appointments are made.
If you have any questions, please call 415 -694 -7648. Thank you.
Little Learners Playgroup (online)Little Learners Playgroup (online)
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Apr 6Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup, Thursdays from 9:30am - 10:15am. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-6, while learning strategies to support your child's visual, sensory, motor and concept development. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!
For more information or to register, please email Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7657. Meet you in the Zoom Room!
Create In Community Art Class (in-person)Create In Community Art Class (in-person)
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Apr 6Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco (1155 Market) to explore a different art process, style or media each moth while connecting with fellow creatives. These are exploratory, process-oriented classes that invite you to work at whatever level you are, be it first timer to expert.
In April, let's experiment with creating Junk Journals, personalized scrapbooks loaded with uneven pages, ephemera, pockets, fold-outs, dangles and anything else you choose to insert within its pages. Bring old trims, tickets, postcards, and other bits of stuff to personalize your creation.
RSVP to Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.
Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)
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Apr 6Join the LightHouse’s monthly access Technology Spanish meeting. Tecnología para todos is a space where users share their knowledge and experience. Each month, we talk about services, applications and devices available for blind and low vision users. This event will be conducted using the Zoom platform. You can connect to Zoom using a computer, an app, or by dialing in from any phone.
Zoom meeting details will be provided when you rsvp by email to: jcolon@lighthouse-sf.org or by calling 415-694-7323.
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Creators' Space: Ahmet Ustunel, "Please Touch the Art" works in clay (in-person)
Creators' Space: Ahmet Ustunel, "Please Touch the Art" works in clay (in-person)
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Apr 7From detailed masks celebrating the working hands of laborers to detailed dragons disguised as teapots, Ahmet's ceramic creations are a feast for the senses. During Creator's Space this month, get your hands on some of Ahmet's intricate and thought-provoking sculpture and hear his stories. Afterward, get your hands on some air-dry clay and create your own work inspired by Ahmet's work, prompts and technique ideas.
RSVP to Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.
EHC Virtual Campfire (online)EHC Virtual Campfire (online)
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Apr 7These fun-filled evenings will consist of all your favorite real campfire traditions, including camp’s traditional opening campfire ceremony rituals, special guest performances, and singalongs. Campfire attendees will also be informed of rebuild updates and all other camp related program offerings.
RSVP to Andrew Martinez at Amartinez@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7642.
Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Youth: The Last of Us (online)Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Youth: The Last of Us (online)
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Apr 7We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. Our weekly gathering takes place Friday evenings at 8:00 pm, where we watch the next episode of our series and connect with LightHouse and EHC friends.
After the Daredevil and Wednesday series, the club has chosen to watch The Last of Us.
***Parents Please Note*** The Last of Us is rated TV-MA and may not be suitable for children under 17 years old. IMDB has a parental guide that goes into greater detail about why the show received this rating.
IMDB The Last of Us content guide
Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm the day before the program. RSVP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.
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College Spaces in the Community: Exploring Chinatown (in-person)
College Spaces in the Community: Exploring Chinatown (in-person)
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Apr 8San Francisco is filled with interesting spaces to explore, and this April we’re inviting all College Spaces members to join us for a day in Chinatown. Cool shops and great food are only some of the things that await us, and we are excited to explore this part of the city with you all!
Remember to bring your Clipper cards, money for any shopping and food you might want, and meet us at LightHouse Headquarters, at 1155 Market, San Francisco, by 11:00 am.
College Spaces from Different Places is a peer-led student organization which cultivates connections and community for all undergraduate college students. This group is designed by and for students who are blind and who have low vision to have fun, build community, and share in our struggles and accomplishments. Many undergrads are currently missing out on forming social connections on their own college campus. Therefore, joining College Spaces from Different Places will give you an opportunity to come together with others from across the state. Leave your books and syllabi behind and join us.
RSVP by April 7 to Daisy Soto at DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org 415-694-7328. You may also contact Daisy with any questions.
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Test SubmissionTriumph of Love Haptic Tour & Audio-Described Performance (in-person)
Triumph of Love Haptic Tour & Audio-Described Performance (in-person)
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Apr 9Shotgun Players in Berkeley is presenting a haptic tour and audio-described performance of the musical The Triumph of Love on Sunday, April 9. The haptic tour begins at 4:00 pm and the performance begins at 5:00 pm. The Triumph of Love follows the fierce and driven princess Leonide as she adopts the dress and prerogatives of a man, invades the retreat of a rationalist philosopher who hates love (and her!), and conspires to win the object of her desire. As the emotional stakes rise, confusion abounds in hilarious and dramatic ways.
Buy tickets for The Triumph of Love or call 510-841-6500 ext 303 or email boxoffice@shotgunplayers.org.
The runtime is 2 hours and 30 minutes including two intermissions.
Shotgun Players is located at the Ashby Stage at 1901 Ashby Ave, Berkeley near the Ashby BART station.
More Info
The Triumph of Love main page
The Triumph of Love haptic tour info
The Triumph of Love program -
LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)
LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)
–
Apr 10Appointments for the 2023 Tax Season are full.
If you do not currently have an appointment and wish to be placed on the waiting list, you may call and leave your full name and phone number at 415 – 694 – 7648. There is no guarantee that we will be able to schedule you.
If you would like to find other free tax filing services, we recommend looking at:
- SF Human Services Agency Page, Filing Your Taxes for Free: https://www.sfhsa.org/services/financial-assistance/free-tax-help/file-your-taxes-free
- Calling 211 if in San Francisco
- Calling 311 for the greater Bay Area
While AARP’s Tax Season will close on April 13, the deadline to file both federal and state taxes has been extended to October 15, 2023.
If You have an appointment
If you have questions, please call 415 – 694 - 7648
Please bring with you:
- Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
- A copy of your social security card
- A copy of your photo ID
- If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you
COVID-19 Requirements:
Masks must be worn at all times.
Out of Scope:
If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.
- If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
- If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
- If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
- If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return. You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
- If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.
There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers, these will be addressed when the appointments are made.
If you have any questions, please call 415 -694 -7648. Thank you.
The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike Cole (online)The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike Cole (online)
–
Apr 10What does it mean to be blind or low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, leads this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness—from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies.
RSVP for The Business of Blindness online or contact Andrew Martinez at AMartinez@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7642.
Toastmasters (online)Toastmasters (online)
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Apr 10We are officially starting our LightHouse Chapter supported by experienced Toastmasters mentors! Toastmasters is a place to develop skills of self-empowerment. Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs.
If you have questions, please contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.
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Tech Together: April 2023 (online)
Tech Together: April 2023 (online)
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Apr 11Join the Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.
April 4: Let's Talk Low-tech
Using access technology involves working with computers, smartphones, and applications with lots of buttons, bells, and whistles... But does it always have to? Join the Access Technology team for an informal discussion about low-tech life hacks for getting things done.
RSVP online for Let's Talk Low-tech or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 11: Make the Most of Screen Reader Solutions
Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss the myriad options for making your devices talk. Whether you are a new user or a seasoned screen reading veteran, you won't want to miss this helpful overview.
RSVP online for Make the Most of Screen Reader Solutions or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 18: Get Set Up with Settings
Whether you are configuring a new device or troubleshooting a troublesome app, your settings can help you set things up or set things right. Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss how to confidently explore settings in any situation without disorientation.
RSVP online for Get Set Up with Settings or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 25: HumanWare Highlights
Join us as we discuss low vision and blindness products from long-established access technology manufacturers. This discussion will highlight offerings from HumanWare.
RSVP online for HumanWare Highlights or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
National Federation of the Blind: San Francisco Chapter Meeting (online)National Federation of the Blind: San Francisco Chapter Meeting (online)
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Apr 11The National Federation of the Blind is a nationwide community of members that believe blind people can live the lives they want. We meet online via Zoom with the following schedule:
6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – Virtual Happy (Half) Hour
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Chapter MeetingTo RSVP, contact President Bobbi Pompey at bobbipompey@gmail.com or 336-988-6375.
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Stress Reduction & Meditation (online)
Stress Reduction & Meditation (online)
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Apr 12We offer a series of short, meditation-based practices for relaxation and stress reduction. The group is appropriate for beginners and advanced practitioners and provides instruction in all aspects of the practice. Instructor Jeffrey Schneider has more than 40 years of meditation and teaching experience.RSVP for Stress Reduction & Meditation online, or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.Gratitude VIBES: April 2023 (online)Gratitude VIBES: April 2023 (online)
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Apr 12Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Each week a student presents something that invigorates them. Previous presentations included poetry, singing, drumming, visualization, calligraphy, self-care, gardening, and employment journeys. Gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help you feel more positive emotions, recognize and relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Individual shares and a gratitude exercise follow presentations.
April’s theme: Advocacy
April 5: Paratransit
April 12: Home Life/Neighborhood
April 19: Through Fundraising
April 26: Ride Share TaxisRSVP to Gratitude-VIBES online or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.
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LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)
LightHouse and AARP Tax Support (in-person)
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Apr 13Appointments for the 2023 Tax Season are full.
If you do not currently have an appointment and wish to be placed on the waiting list, you may call and leave your full name and phone number at 415 – 694 – 7648. There is no guarantee that we will be able to schedule you.
If you would like to find other free tax filing services, we recommend looking at:
- SF Human Services Agency Page, Filing Your Taxes for Free: https://www.sfhsa.org/services/financial-assistance/free-tax-help/file-your-taxes-free
- Calling 211 if in San Francisco
- Calling 311 for the greater Bay Area
While AARP’s Tax Season will close on April 13, the deadline to file both federal and state taxes has been extended to October 15, 2023.
If You have an appointment
If you have questions, please call 415 – 694 - 7648
Please bring with you:
- Your tax paperwork you’ve received in the mail
- A copy of your social security card
- A copy of your photo ID
- If you are eligible for a refund and would like it deposited directly into your account, please bring a voided check. If you do not have a voided check, your refund check will be mailed to you
COVID-19 Requirements:
Masks must be worn at all times.
Out of Scope:
If any of these situations apply to you, you may be out of scope for AARP. If you think that you are out of scope, please feel free to call us so that we can confirm.
- If you do not have health insurance, we cannot prepare your tax return. Apologies, but this is due to the California mandate that requires everybody to have health insurance, which results in tax complications.
- If you have tax deductible contributions to an HSA account, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law and is complicated.
- If you have rental income, we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you are in a civil union or married filing separately, we cannot prepare your tax return. This is due to the differences in Federal and California tax law.
- If you’re self-employed, and want to declare your health insurance premiums as an expense, and are receiving premium tax credits (via CoveredCA), we cannot prepare your tax return.
- If you have rental property, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you have a dependent child with unearned income subject to the “Kiddie Tax”, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you are self-employed and, due to the pandemic, you deferred paying your Self-Employment tax, have a PPP loan, or took Covid sick leave, we cannot prepare your return.
- If you own a business with employees and/or inventory, we cannot prepare your return. You would be wise to hire a professional tax preparer.
- If you have hobby income or not for profit activity, we cannot prepare your return.
There are some specific requirements and not all taxes will be able to be completed by AARP volunteers, these will be addressed when the appointments are made.
If you have any questions, please call 415 -694 -7648. Thank you.
Little Learners Playgroup (online)Little Learners Playgroup (online)
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Apr 13Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup, Thursdays from 9:30am - 10:15am. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-6, while learning strategies to support your child's visual, sensory, motor and concept development. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!
For more information or to register, please email Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7657. Meet you in the Zoom Room!
Create In Community Art Class (in-person)Create In Community Art Class (in-person)
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Apr 13Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco (1155 Market) to explore a different art process, style or media each moth while connecting with fellow creatives. These are exploratory, process-oriented classes that invite you to work at whatever level you are, be it first timer to expert.
In April, let's experiment with creating Junk Journals, personalized scrapbooks loaded with uneven pages, ephemera, pockets, fold-outs, dangles and anything else you choose to insert within its pages. Bring old trims, tickets, postcards, and other bits of stuff to personalize your creation.
RSVP to Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.
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Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Youth: The Last of Us (online)
Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Youth: The Last of Us (online)
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Apr 14We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. Our weekly gathering takes place Friday evenings at 8:00 pm, where we watch the next episode of our series and connect with LightHouse and EHC friends.
After the Daredevil and Wednesday series, the club has chosen to watch The Last of Us.
***Parents Please Note*** The Last of Us is rated TV-MA and may not be suitable for children under 17 years old. IMDB has a parental guide that goes into greater detail about why the show received this rating.
IMDB The Last of Us content guide
Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm the day before the program. RSVP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.
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CCB San Francisco Chapter monthly meeting (online)
CCB San Francisco Chapter monthly meeting (online)
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Apr 15The CCB San Francisco Chapter holds its regular meetings on the third Saturday of the month. In March, our meeting will start at 10:00 AM as we join a program about racial equity being presented by Inclusive Diversity of California, a statewide special interest affiliate of the California Council of the Blind, followed by our regular business meeting at 11:30 AM. This event will take place virtually on Zoom and in person at the LightHouse Multipurpose Room, 1155 Market Street, 10th floor. All are welcome.
RSVP to President Vita Zavoli at VZavoli@gmail.com or 510-846-4080.
Polishing in the Park (in person)Polishing in the Park (in person)
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Apr 15Polishing in the Park: LightHouse Student Woodworkers Club visits a Specialty Woodworking Retail Store
Saturday, April 15 @ 1:00 pm
The April gathering of polishing in the Park is scheduled for Saturday, April 15 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Woodcraft in San Carlos. We will gather at the Caltrain Station at 1:00 pm and walk as a group to Woodcraft, a store for woodcrafters and woodworking. While there, we will get the chance to explore all types of tools, different types of wood, and have the opportunity to ask the friendly experts at Woodcraft questions. We will also have a handful of volunteers who will join us that day to help orient guests to the store layout and assist with any visual access barriers. Please note, due to logistic and store size we need to limit this club outing to 8 participants.
Who: 6 LightHouse students and participants of all ages who are blind or have low vision
What: Gathering of blind crafters in parks around the Bay Area where we will polish wood into art
When: Saturday, April 15 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Where: Start at the San Carlos Caltrain Station and walk a little more than a half mile to Woodcraft @ 40 El Camino Real, San Carlos, CA
RSVP: Please contact Jamey Gump by email at jgump@LightHouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372 by Friday, April 14
Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club: Polar Bear (online)Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club: Polar Bear (online)
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Apr 15It’s time for another intergenerational Reel Escape Audio Description Movie Club. This time around, we’re going to celebrate Earth Day by watching a film that will help us think about nature and the impact we as a species have on our planet. The film is Polar Bear, a Disney documentary that follows a mother polar bear's memories of her youth that prepare her to navigate the increasingly challenging world that polar bears face today.
Before the film, we’ll chat and get to know each other a bit. After the film, we’ll have space to chat about the film and connect.
What a trailer for Polar Bear.
RSVP online for current Reel Escape members
RSVP online for new Reel Escape members
If you have any questions, please contact Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.
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The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike Cole (online)
The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike Cole (online)
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Apr 17What does it mean to be blind or low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, leads this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness—from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies.
RSVP for The Business of Blindness online or contact Andrew Martinez at AMartinez@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7642.
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Tech Together: April 2023 (online)
Tech Together: April 2023 (online)
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Apr 18Join the Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.
April 4: Let's Talk Low-tech
Using access technology involves working with computers, smartphones, and applications with lots of buttons, bells, and whistles... But does it always have to? Join the Access Technology team for an informal discussion about low-tech life hacks for getting things done.
RSVP online for Let's Talk Low-tech or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 11: Make the Most of Screen Reader Solutions
Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss the myriad options for making your devices talk. Whether you are a new user or a seasoned screen reading veteran, you won't want to miss this helpful overview.
RSVP online for Make the Most of Screen Reader Solutions or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 18: Get Set Up with Settings
Whether you are configuring a new device or troubleshooting a troublesome app, your settings can help you set things up or set things right. Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss how to confidently explore settings in any situation without disorientation.
RSVP online for Get Set Up with Settings or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 25: HumanWare Highlights
Join us as we discuss low vision and blindness products from long-established access technology manufacturers. This discussion will highlight offerings from HumanWare.
RSVP online for HumanWare Highlights or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
30% and Growing (in-person)30% and Growing (in-person)
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Apr 1830% & Growing heads over the Bay Bridge into Berkeley! This month we will be gathering for drinks and socializing at Triple Rock Brewing (1920 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704), a local Berkeley classic. Come out and enjoy food, drinks and comradery with others who are blind and low vision in different stages of their career. For those interested, there will be a group meeting at Lighthouse and traveling to Triple Rock together.
Contact Andrew Martinez at AMartinez@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7642 to RSVP.
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Stress Reduction & Meditation (online)
Stress Reduction & Meditation (online)
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Apr 19We offer a series of short, meditation-based practices for relaxation and stress reduction. The group is appropriate for beginners and advanced practitioners and provides instruction in all aspects of the practice. Instructor Jeffrey Schneider has more than 40 years of meditation and teaching experience.RSVP for Stress Reduction & Meditation online, or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.Gratitude VIBES: April 2023 (online)Gratitude VIBES: April 2023 (online)
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Apr 19Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Each week a student presents something that invigorates them. Previous presentations included poetry, singing, drumming, visualization, calligraphy, self-care, gardening, and employment journeys. Gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help you feel more positive emotions, recognize and relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Individual shares and a gratitude exercise follow presentations.
April’s theme: Advocacy
April 5: Paratransit
April 12: Home Life/Neighborhood
April 19: Through Fundraising
April 26: Ride Share TaxisRSVP to Gratitude-VIBES online or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.
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Little Learners Playgroup (online)
Little Learners Playgroup (online)
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Apr 20Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup, Thursdays from 9:30am - 10:15am. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-6, while learning strategies to support your child's visual, sensory, motor and concept development. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!
For more information or to register, please email Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7657. Meet you in the Zoom Room!
Create In Community Art Class (in-person)Create In Community Art Class (in-person)
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Apr 20Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco (1155 Market) to explore a different art process, style or media each moth while connecting with fellow creatives. These are exploratory, process-oriented classes that invite you to work at whatever level you are, be it first timer to expert.
In April, let's experiment with creating Junk Journals, personalized scrapbooks loaded with uneven pages, ephemera, pockets, fold-outs, dangles and anything else you choose to insert within its pages. Bring old trims, tickets, postcards, and other bits of stuff to personalize your creation.
RSVP to Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.
Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)Tecnologia para Todos (en línea)/Technology for All (online)
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Apr 20Join the LightHouse’s monthly access Technology Spanish meeting. Tecnología para todos is a space where users share their knowledge and experience. Each month, we talk about services, applications and devices available for blind and low vision users. This event will be conducted using the Zoom platform. You can connect to Zoom using a computer, an app, or by dialing in from any phone.
Zoom meeting details will be provided when you rsvp by email to: jcolon@lighthouse-sf.org or by calling 415-694-7323.
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YES Weekend Workshop: Conferences and Connections (in-person)
YES Weekend Workshop: Conferences and Connections (in-person)
(All day)
Apr 21 – Apr 23When Friday, April 21 at 4:00 pm to Sunday, April 23 at noon
Networking can happen in a variety of ways, some structured and at other times organically, and this April YES participants will get chances to practice their skills in multiple environments. We will be spending part of the weekend at the CTEBVI (California Transcribers and Educators for the Blind and Visually Impaired) conference’s Youth Institute, where students will hear from mentors and professionals who are blind, and participate in various activities that will encourage networking. We will also hear from some blind and low vision mentor spotlights, discuss networking strategies and approaches, and leave plenty of time to socialize with peers!
YES (Youth Employment Services) workshops are monthly weekend-long learning experiences for youth and young adults who are enthusiastic about realizing their dream careers, emphasizing the vocational enrichment of low vision and blind youth, providing access to a multifaceted array of mentorship, employment readiness skills, and alternative accessible techniques. Each YES workshop focuses on a specific theme and offers an array of self-advocacy, assistive technology, living skills, and soft skills curricula empowering students to strive toward future employment or post-secondary educational success.
The weekend is spent learning from blind and low vision mentors, connecting with blind and low vision peers, and engaging in creative hands-on activities which further support youth to explore and achieve their individualized and professional goals.
- Students will get opportunities to practice networking and establish connections with blind and low vision professionals at the CTEBVI Conference. Students will utilize navigation skills, have conversations with mentors about topics such as advocacy, college preparedness, and employment experiences. They will also explore the conference exhibit hall and connect with professionals from various blindness agencies.
- Participants will build a repertoire of work-readiness skills while attending the CTEBVI Youth Institute and participating in lessons on navigation, dressing for success and financial literacy.
- Students will practice their independent navigation skills when taking BART to and from the conference.
- The overnight nature of the YES workshop provides opportunities for students to refine their workplace readiness soft skills including effective social and professional communication and independent living all while building community with their blind and low vision peers and mentors.
Things to Bring:
- A notetaking device or implement (braille note, pen, slate and stylus, phone with keyboard, laptop, etc.). You may be asked to complete activities electronically.
- Necessities you may need such as any orientation & mobility tools to travel safely, money for transportation to and from the workshop, or personal medication.
If you are interested in participating in the April YES Weekend Workshop, please:
- Contact your Department of Rehabilitation counselor to discuss workshop attendance and authorization. The cost for this workshop is $950 and includes all activities, food, and lodging for the weekend.
- Confirm attendance with Daisy Soto, Youth Services Coordinator, by email at DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7328. If you have any questions or would like to pay for your participation in this workshop, contact DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org. Note, space for this program is limited and workshop attendance must be confirmed one week prior by Friday, April 14.
The Tactile Graphic Rich Elementary Classroom: Supporting Inclusion and Literacy @ CTEBVI (in-person)The Tactile Graphic Rich Elementary Classroom: Supporting Inclusion and Literacy @ CTEBVI (in-person)
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Apr 21This is a workshop that will be held at the CTEBVI Conference at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront (located at 1800 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame). This is joint presentation by Jessica McDowell and LightHouse’s Naomi Rosenberg.
Description: Tactile graphics… not just for math and science! They support literacy and a child’s enjoyment and engagement with reading. Early elementary classrooms are filled with books with pictures. How can we support our students in accessing books and instruction? How can tactile drawing skills help our students build skills in interpreting tactile graphics? Discussion will include ways to make a blind student’s drawings on a Draftsman visually accessible others. Options for tactile graphic creation will be explored with focus on ways to produce unique graphics quickly on-site. Session will include hands-on time making quick and easy tactile graphics.
Hands-on Introduction to Reading Tactile Maps using TMAP @ CTEBVI (in-person)Hands-on Introduction to Reading Tactile Maps using TMAP @ CTEBVI (in-person)
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Apr 21This is a workshop that will be held at the CTEBVI Conference at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront (located at 1800 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame).
Description: Literacy is an important skill that will contribute to the success of today's blind and visually impaired students, both inside and outside of the classroom. Participants will Learn essential techniques for reading tactile graphics in general and tactile maps in particular through hands on exercises focusing on TMAPs, a unique form of tactile street maps. Each participant will receive a presentation packet to keep. A working knowledge of braille is recommended..
Hands-on Introduction to Reading Tactile Maps Using Tactile BART Station Map @ CTEBVI (in-person)Hands-on Introduction to Reading Tactile Maps Using Tactile BART Station Map @ CTEBVI (in-person)
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Apr 21This is a workshop that will be held at the CTEBVI Conference at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront (located at 1800 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame).
Description: Tactile Graphics Literacy is an important skill that will contribute to the success of today's blind and visually impaired students, both inside and outside of the classroom. Participants will Learn additional techniques for reading tactile graphics in general and tactile maps in particular as they explore the rich set of symbols and textures that comprise the detailed, multi-level views comprising each tactile BART station map through hands on exercises. Each participant will receive a presentation packet to keep. A working knowledge of braille is recommended. Attendance at both sessions of this workshop is strongly encouraged but not mandatory.
Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Youth: The Last of Us (online)Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Youth: The Last of Us (online)
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Apr 21We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. Our weekly gathering takes place Friday evenings at 8:00 pm, where we watch the next episode of our series and connect with LightHouse and EHC friends.
After the Daredevil and Wednesday series, the club has chosen to watch The Last of Us.
***Parents Please Note*** The Last of Us is rated TV-MA and may not be suitable for children under 17 years old. IMDB has a parental guide that goes into greater detail about why the show received this rating.
IMDB The Last of Us content guide
Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm the day before the program. RSVP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.
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YES Weekend Workshop: Conferences and Connections (in-person)
YES Weekend Workshop: Conferences and Connections (in-person)
(All day)
Apr 21 – Apr 23When Friday, April 21 at 4:00 pm to Sunday, April 23 at noon
Networking can happen in a variety of ways, some structured and at other times organically, and this April YES participants will get chances to practice their skills in multiple environments. We will be spending part of the weekend at the CTEBVI (California Transcribers and Educators for the Blind and Visually Impaired) conference’s Youth Institute, where students will hear from mentors and professionals who are blind, and participate in various activities that will encourage networking. We will also hear from some blind and low vision mentor spotlights, discuss networking strategies and approaches, and leave plenty of time to socialize with peers!
YES (Youth Employment Services) workshops are monthly weekend-long learning experiences for youth and young adults who are enthusiastic about realizing their dream careers, emphasizing the vocational enrichment of low vision and blind youth, providing access to a multifaceted array of mentorship, employment readiness skills, and alternative accessible techniques. Each YES workshop focuses on a specific theme and offers an array of self-advocacy, assistive technology, living skills, and soft skills curricula empowering students to strive toward future employment or post-secondary educational success.
The weekend is spent learning from blind and low vision mentors, connecting with blind and low vision peers, and engaging in creative hands-on activities which further support youth to explore and achieve their individualized and professional goals.
- Students will get opportunities to practice networking and establish connections with blind and low vision professionals at the CTEBVI Conference. Students will utilize navigation skills, have conversations with mentors about topics such as advocacy, college preparedness, and employment experiences. They will also explore the conference exhibit hall and connect with professionals from various blindness agencies.
- Participants will build a repertoire of work-readiness skills while attending the CTEBVI Youth Institute and participating in lessons on navigation, dressing for success and financial literacy.
- Students will practice their independent navigation skills when taking BART to and from the conference.
- The overnight nature of the YES workshop provides opportunities for students to refine their workplace readiness soft skills including effective social and professional communication and independent living all while building community with their blind and low vision peers and mentors.
Things to Bring:
- A notetaking device or implement (braille note, pen, slate and stylus, phone with keyboard, laptop, etc.). You may be asked to complete activities electronically.
- Necessities you may need such as any orientation & mobility tools to travel safely, money for transportation to and from the workshop, or personal medication.
If you are interested in participating in the April YES Weekend Workshop, please:
- Contact your Department of Rehabilitation counselor to discuss workshop attendance and authorization. The cost for this workshop is $950 and includes all activities, food, and lodging for the weekend.
- Confirm attendance with Daisy Soto, Youth Services Coordinator, by email at DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7328. If you have any questions or would like to pay for your participation in this workshop, contact DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org. Note, space for this program is limited and workshop attendance must be confirmed one week prior by Friday, April 14.
2023 CTEBVI Youth Institute (in-person)2023 CTEBVI Youth Institute (in-person)
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Apr 22Each year CTEBVI hosts a conference that brings blind and low vision students and their families together with the professionals who meet their educational and rehabilitation needs. Throughout this resource-rich weekend participants get the chance to connect with peers and learn about the latest and greatest. The Youth Institute helps youth to do just that while connecting with peers.
The day will be filled with interactive activities and challenges that will address concepts that are important to youth such as technology, navigation, and networking. Each lesson will be led by professionals and a group of mentors who are also blind or have low vision.
This year’s Youth Institute is open for all blind and low vision students in the K-12 school system, as well as our transition age college students that are under the age of 22. To register for the Youth Institute, please complete the online form linked here.
If you have questions about this year’s Youth Institute, please reach out to Jamey Gump, Youth Services Coordinator, by email at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or by phone at 415-694-7372.
Writers Lane at the LightHouse: Poetry with Stephen Kuusisto (online)Writers Lane at the LightHouse: Poetry with Stephen Kuusisto (online)
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Apr 22Writers Lane at the LightHouse: A Writing Workshop Series with Blind Authors Spring & Summer 2023
This virtual writing workshop series will help you grow confident in several genres: poetry, personal essay/op ed, journalism, and fiction. It will also address professionalism including: how to submit your work, how to pitch ideas to editors, and what it takes to have a writing career. Each month a visiting author will give students an overview of the genre, give an assignment for the following week, and provide spoken feedback on a portion of the work as well as suggestions for next steps.
April 22 & 29: Poetry with Stephen Kuusisto
Upcoming workshops in this series:
May 20 & 27: Journalism with Andrew Leland
June 17 & 24: Fiction with James Tate Hill
July 15 & 22: Personal/opinion essay with M. Leona Godin
August 19 & 26: Professionalism with all authorsRSVP online for Writers Lane at LightHouse or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.
Taking on the “Real World”: A Conversation with LightHouse’s Pre-employment Program Graduates @ CTEBVI (in-person)Taking on the “Real World”: A Conversation with LightHouse’s Pre-employment Program Graduates @ CTEBVI (in-person)
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Apr 22This is a workshop that will be held at the CTEBVI Conference at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront (located at 1800 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame).
Foundational soft-skills, leadership, and confidence-building experiences are essential building blocks as students begin planning for college, work opportunities and the “what comes next” conversations. During this workshop, audience members will hear from a panel of blind and low vision graduates of LightHouse’s YES (Youth Employment Services) Academy about how they have taken on college and career opportunities after finishing the program. Students will share on what techniques worked best for them, what training experiences they found most valuable, and what they would like to see in future pre-employment programming. Attendees will have opportunities to ask questions of both the YES graduates and program coordinators.
The 10 Truths of Residential Camping for Children and Adults Who Are Blind & VI @CTEBVI (in-person)The 10 Truths of Residential Camping for Children and Adults Who Are Blind & VI @CTEBVI (in-person)
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Apr 22This is a workshop that will be held at the CTEBVI Conference at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront (located at 1800 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame).
This presentation is designed to educate participants about the importance and benefits of why children, youth, and adults who are visually impaired, and their families, should participate in summer residential camping. Co-presenters Mark Lucas from Wayfinder Family Services/Camp Bloomfield and Tony Fletcher from the LightHouse for the Blind/Enchanted Hills Camp utilize research-driven outcomes and testimonials from campers, parents and professionals. They provide their observations from their combined 50 years of providing camping and recreational services for people who are blind to discuss the 10 Truths of Residential Camping for people who are blind and visually impaired.
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YES Weekend Workshop: Conferences and Connections (in-person)
YES Weekend Workshop: Conferences and Connections (in-person)
(All day)
Apr 21 – Apr 23When Friday, April 21 at 4:00 pm to Sunday, April 23 at noon
Networking can happen in a variety of ways, some structured and at other times organically, and this April YES participants will get chances to practice their skills in multiple environments. We will be spending part of the weekend at the CTEBVI (California Transcribers and Educators for the Blind and Visually Impaired) conference’s Youth Institute, where students will hear from mentors and professionals who are blind, and participate in various activities that will encourage networking. We will also hear from some blind and low vision mentor spotlights, discuss networking strategies and approaches, and leave plenty of time to socialize with peers!
YES (Youth Employment Services) workshops are monthly weekend-long learning experiences for youth and young adults who are enthusiastic about realizing their dream careers, emphasizing the vocational enrichment of low vision and blind youth, providing access to a multifaceted array of mentorship, employment readiness skills, and alternative accessible techniques. Each YES workshop focuses on a specific theme and offers an array of self-advocacy, assistive technology, living skills, and soft skills curricula empowering students to strive toward future employment or post-secondary educational success.
The weekend is spent learning from blind and low vision mentors, connecting with blind and low vision peers, and engaging in creative hands-on activities which further support youth to explore and achieve their individualized and professional goals.
- Students will get opportunities to practice networking and establish connections with blind and low vision professionals at the CTEBVI Conference. Students will utilize navigation skills, have conversations with mentors about topics such as advocacy, college preparedness, and employment experiences. They will also explore the conference exhibit hall and connect with professionals from various blindness agencies.
- Participants will build a repertoire of work-readiness skills while attending the CTEBVI Youth Institute and participating in lessons on navigation, dressing for success and financial literacy.
- Students will practice their independent navigation skills when taking BART to and from the conference.
- The overnight nature of the YES workshop provides opportunities for students to refine their workplace readiness soft skills including effective social and professional communication and independent living all while building community with their blind and low vision peers and mentors.
Things to Bring:
- A notetaking device or implement (braille note, pen, slate and stylus, phone with keyboard, laptop, etc.). You may be asked to complete activities electronically.
- Necessities you may need such as any orientation & mobility tools to travel safely, money for transportation to and from the workshop, or personal medication.
If you are interested in participating in the April YES Weekend Workshop, please:
- Contact your Department of Rehabilitation counselor to discuss workshop attendance and authorization. The cost for this workshop is $950 and includes all activities, food, and lodging for the weekend.
- Confirm attendance with Daisy Soto, Youth Services Coordinator, by email at DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7328. If you have any questions or would like to pay for your participation in this workshop, contact DSoto@lighthouse-sf.org. Note, space for this program is limited and workshop attendance must be confirmed one week prior by Friday, April 14.
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The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike Cole (online)
The Business of Blindness: Coffee with Mike Cole (online)
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Apr 24What does it mean to be blind or low vision? Mike Cole, a veteran of all things blindness, leads this call-in forum to discuss the many day-to-day ins and outs of blindness—from daily living in your home environment to navigating the vast expanse of bureaucracies.
RSVP for The Business of Blindness online or contact Andrew Martinez at AMartinez@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7642.
Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together **Registration Closed**Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together **Registration Closed**
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Apr 24The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together course is composed of essential topics recommended for all participants who are new to low vision.
Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.
The virtual course is divided into 6 classes over 4 weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory class with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour classes which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists. There is also a pre-course assessment one week prior to the start of the course, ongoing support during the course, one in-person half-day group lesson, and one individualized lesson.
It is a comprehensive skills training distance course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the 6 virtual classes, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Class 7 is a half-day, in-person Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration at the San Francisco LightHouse Headquarters. Thereafter, participants will be eligible for an individualized Low Vision Therapy class.
The first 6 classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Daylight Time):
Week of April 17: Course Introduction and Pre-Course Assessment
Week 1 (Classes #1 and #2): Monday, April 24 and Wednesday, April 26– 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Class Support between Weeks 1 and 2
Week 2 (Classes #3 and #4): Monday, May 1 and Wednesday, May 3 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Week 3 (Classes #5 and #6): Wednesday, May 8 and Wednesday, May 10 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Class Support between Weeks 3 and 4
Week 4 (Class #7): Wednesday, May 17 at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco – 10am to 3:00 pm (including 1 hour break for lunch, further peer interaction)
Before June 14, 2023 (Class #8): individualized follow-up class tailored to the unique needs of each participant (scheduling preferred within 1-2 weeks from the group Class #7)
If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.
Currently this course registration is closed, however we are accepting referrals for our waitlist for our next available class (dates TBA). Please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 for an intake and referral
Toastmasters (online)Toastmasters (online)
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Apr 24We are officially starting our LightHouse Chapter supported by experienced Toastmasters mentors! Toastmasters is a place to develop skills of self-empowerment. Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs.
If you have questions, please contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.
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Tech Together: April 2023 (online)
Tech Together: April 2023 (online)
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Apr 25Join the Access Technology team for a series of informal conversations on technology topics relevant to these current times.
April 4: Let's Talk Low-tech
Using access technology involves working with computers, smartphones, and applications with lots of buttons, bells, and whistles... But does it always have to? Join the Access Technology team for an informal discussion about low-tech life hacks for getting things done.
RSVP online for Let's Talk Low-tech or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 11: Make the Most of Screen Reader Solutions
Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss the myriad options for making your devices talk. Whether you are a new user or a seasoned screen reading veteran, you won't want to miss this helpful overview.
RSVP online for Make the Most of Screen Reader Solutions or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 18: Get Set Up with Settings
Whether you are configuring a new device or troubleshooting a troublesome app, your settings can help you set things up or set things right. Join the Access Technology team and we'll discuss how to confidently explore settings in any situation without disorientation.
RSVP online for Get Set Up with Settings or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
April 25: HumanWare Highlights
Join us as we discuss low vision and blindness products from long-established access technology manufacturers. This discussion will highlight offerings from HumanWare.
RSVP online for HumanWare Highlights or leave a voicemail at 415-694-7684.
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Stress Reduction & Meditation (online)
Stress Reduction & Meditation (online)
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Apr 26We offer a series of short, meditation-based practices for relaxation and stress reduction. The group is appropriate for beginners and advanced practitioners and provides instruction in all aspects of the practice. Instructor Jeffrey Schneider has more than 40 years of meditation and teaching experience.RSVP for Stress Reduction & Meditation online, or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together **Registration Closed**Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together **Registration Closed**
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Apr 26The Low Vision Skills: Putting It All Together course is composed of essential topics recommended for all participants who are new to low vision.
Adults 55 and older, in addition to adult clients of all ages being served by the California Department of Rehabilitation, are invited to participate in a virtual six-session course geared towards learning about their changes in vision. Participants will learn practical ways to maximize successful, independent living skills in work, school, and daily living environments.
The virtual course is divided into 6 classes over 4 weeks: a 2.5-hour introductory class with a Low Vision Optometrist, Social Worker, and two Certified Low Vision Therapists, followed by five, 2.5-hour classes which will include practical skills taught by the Certified Low Vision Therapists. There is also a pre-course assessment one week prior to the start of the course, ongoing support during the course, one in-person half-day group lesson, and one individualized lesson.
It is a comprehensive skills training distance course introducing participants to foundational low vision concepts, skills, and current technologies for maximizing successful, independent daily living skills. After the 6 virtual classes, participants can expect to feel more confident in using their vision and making changes in their environment for independent daily living skills. Class 7 is a half-day, in-person Group Adaptive Devices and Strategies Demonstration at the San Francisco LightHouse Headquarters. Thereafter, participants will be eligible for an individualized Low Vision Therapy class.
The first 6 classes will be taught via Zoom Video Conferencing, best viewed on a tablet, laptop, or computer (phone is not recommended for participation in this course due to small screen size for viewing class materials and resource options) at the following dates and times (Pacific Daylight Time):
Week of April 17: Course Introduction and Pre-Course Assessment
Week 1 (Classes #1 and #2): Monday, April 24 and Wednesday, April 26– 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Class Support between Weeks 1 and 2
Week 2 (Classes #3 and #4): Monday, May 1 and Wednesday, May 3 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Week 3 (Classes #5 and #6): Wednesday, May 8 and Wednesday, May 10 – 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Class Support between Weeks 3 and 4
Week 4 (Class #7): Wednesday, May 17 at LightHouse Headquarters in San Francisco – 10am to 3:00 pm (including 1 hour break for lunch, further peer interaction)
Before June 14, 2023 (Class #8): individualized follow-up class tailored to the unique needs of each participant (scheduling preferred within 1-2 weeks from the group Class #7)
If you are not with the California Department of Rehabilitation, and if you are age 55 and older, living in the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity, there may be partial scholarship funding for training and course materials. For adults working with the California Department of Rehabilitation, please contact your Rehabilitation Counselor directly to discuss participation and referral.
Currently this course registration is closed, however we are accepting referrals for our waitlist for our next available class (dates TBA). Please contact Debbie Bacon at 415-694-7357 for an intake and referral
Gratitude VIBES: April 2023 (online)Gratitude VIBES: April 2023 (online)
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Apr 26Gratitude-VIBES are Visually Impaired Blind Energizing Sessions. Each week a student presents something that invigorates them. Previous presentations included poetry, singing, drumming, visualization, calligraphy, self-care, gardening, and employment journeys. Gratitude is associated with greater happiness and can help you feel more positive emotions, recognize and relish good experiences, improve your health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. Individual shares and a gratitude exercise follow presentations.
April’s theme: Advocacy
April 5: Paratransit
April 12: Home Life/Neighborhood
April 19: Through Fundraising
April 26: Ride Share TaxisRSVP to Gratitude-VIBES online or contact Sabrina Bolus at Sbolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7607.
Meet You At The House (online)Meet You At The House (online)
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Apr 26Pull up a comfy chair and join Community Outreach Specialist Sheri Albers in the LightHouse virtual living room to talk about all things LightHouse! Have you been experiencing changes in your vision that have been affecting your daily life, but did not know who to talk to? LightHouse in San Francisco may have the solutions you have been looking for. This is a safe place to bring the questions that you have been wanting to ask. As always, Raqi from the Adaptations Store will be on hand to let us know what is new in the world of low vision and blindness products.
RSVP to Sheri Albers at SAlbers@LightHouse-sf.org or 415-694-7331.
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Little Learners Playgroup (online)
Little Learners Playgroup (online)
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Apr 27Bring your giggles and wiggles to Little Learners weekly Zoom Playgroup, Thursdays from 9:30am - 10:15am. Enjoy fun activities with your little one, ages 0-6, while learning strategies to support your child's visual, sensory, motor and concept development. Connect with other families who understand and share your experience raising a child who is blind, has low vision, or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Weekly activities are designed to be accessible for all, and to build upon monthly themes that you can integrate into your family routines. All are welcome!
For more information or to register, please email Jacqueline Barden at littlelearners@lighthouse-sf.org or call 415-694-7657. Meet you in the Zoom Room!
Create In Community Art Class (in-person)Create In Community Art Class (in-person)
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Apr 27Let's gather together in the 11th floor art space at LightHouse San Francisco (1155 Market) to explore a different art process, style or media each moth while connecting with fellow creatives. These are exploratory, process-oriented classes that invite you to work at whatever level you are, be it first timer to expert.
In April, let's experiment with creating Junk Journals, personalized scrapbooks loaded with uneven pages, ephemera, pockets, fold-outs, dangles and anything else you choose to insert within its pages. Bring old trims, tickets, postcards, and other bits of stuff to personalize your creation.
RSVP to Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.
Museum of Craft & Design Mobile Art visits LightHouse (in-person)Museum of Craft & Design Mobile Art visits LightHouse (in-person)
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Apr 27The Museum of Craft and Design, will be pulling up in their Mobile Art Studio to join us for two sessions of our "Create in Community " art class, to offer art activations inspired by their upcoming exhibits. Meet on the 11th floor in the craft room at LightHouse San Francisco headquarters to create with new materials, unpack thought-provoking prompts and spark vibrant conversation with guest artists from a fabulous local arts institution.
Sessions stem from work with the view that we will revisit that work later in June.
The Mobile Art Studio features a collection of works showcasing the art as a means of coping with changes in the Bay Area and an artist's concept of "Concrete Journals".
If you have any questions, please contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.
Asian Art Museum: "Beyond Bollywood" (in-person)Asian Art Museum: "Beyond Bollywood" (in-person)
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Apr 27Beyond Bollywood: 2000 Years of Dance in Art - A journey for the mind, body, and senses through two millennia of art inspired by dance from South and Southeast Asia and the Himalayas. Dance is everywhere in the arts of the Indian cultural sphere: from the sacred dance of a god bringing the world into being to the elaborate choreography of modern Bollywood, every move has meaning.
On April 27, the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco has a program arranged for the Lighthouse Community that starts meeting up in the Sri Ram maker space for some exhibit inspired crafting. Following that at around 5:00 pm, the exhibit's curator will walk us through the exhibit with us, describing highlights and answering questions. We may also engage with the exhibit's electronic audio described tour. At around 6:00 pm, there will be a dance dialogue with a local performance group to include an informal demo. Then, we will conclude with social and refreshments in the museum's private dining room.
Admission is free to this event and Lighthouse community members may enter the Asian Art Museum at any regular hours free.
RSVP by April 20 to Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.
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Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Youth: The Last of Us (online)
Reel Escape Audio Description Club for Youth: The Last of Us (online)
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Apr 28We all need an escape at times, and with the Real Escape Audio Description Club you can do just that with your blind and low vision friends. Our weekly gathering takes place Friday evenings at 8:00 pm, where we watch the next episode of our series and connect with LightHouse and EHC friends.
After the Daredevil and Wednesday series, the club has chosen to watch The Last of Us.
***Parents Please Note*** The Last of Us is rated TV-MA and may not be suitable for children under 17 years old. IMDB has a parental guide that goes into greater detail about why the show received this rating.
IMDB The Last of Us content guide
Zoom meeting information will be shared with those that RSVP by 5:00 pm the day before the program. RSVP to Jamey Gump at JGump@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7372.
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Writers Lane at the LightHouse: Poetry with Stephen Kuusisto (online)
Writers Lane at the LightHouse: Poetry with Stephen Kuusisto (online)
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Apr 29Writers Lane at the LightHouse: A Writing Workshop Series with Blind Authors Spring & Summer 2023
This virtual writing workshop series will help you grow confident in several genres: poetry, personal essay/op ed, journalism, and fiction. It will also address professionalism including: how to submit your work, how to pitch ideas to editors, and what it takes to have a writing career. Each month a visiting author will give students an overview of the genre, give an assignment for the following week, and provide spoken feedback on a portion of the work as well as suggestions for next steps.
April 22 & 29: Poetry with Stephen Kuusisto
Upcoming workshops in this series:
May 20 & 27: Journalism with Andrew Leland
June 17 & 24: Fiction with James Tate Hill
July 15 & 22: Personal/opinion essay with M. Leona Godin
August 19 & 26: Professionalism with all authorsRSVP online for Writers Lane at LightHouse or contact Sabrina Bolus at SBolus@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-6707.
Dog Guide Jamboree (in-person)Dog Guide Jamboree (in-person)
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Apr 29Calling all current and prospective dog guide handlers: Join LightHouse this April to recognize National Guide Dog Day and celebrate the special partnerships between handlers and guides.
Start the afternoon off by showing your guide some love at our grooming station, celebrate with style at our harness decoration station, and stop by our treat bar to grab some snacks for both the human and four-legged sidekick sides of the team.
The second half of the afternoon will have opportunities to compete in guide dog trivia, show off your pup’s skills during Simon Says (dog guide edition), and join discussions on relevant travel and advocacy topics for you and your guides. Whether you are a current dog guide handler or someone considering the idea and hoping to socialize with current teams, we hope you’ll join us this April for an afternoon of fun for all!
Who: All current and prospective dog guide handlers
What: Dog Guide team celebration
When: Saturday April 29, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Where: LightHouse Headquarters on the 10th floor of 1155 Market St. San Francisco
RSVP: All guests must RSVP prior to the event.RSVP to Dog Guide Jamboree for current Lighthouse students.
New to LightHouse programing? Sign up for Dog Guide Jamboree here.
If you have any questions about this event, please contact Maia Scott at MScott@lighthouse-sf.org or 415-694-7608.
The events for the upcoming week are read aloud on our event hotline every Friday, which can be accessed by calling 415-694-7325. For more information about visiting the Adaptations Store, head to our shop page.
The LightHouse is scent-free. Please abstain from wearing colognes, perfumes, or other scented products. Additionally, coffee must be securely lidded at all times and citrus should not be peeled on the premises. Thanks for supporting our efforts to respect chemical sensitivities!
